Postgraduate Diploma in Chemical Pathology

Purpose

The primary purpose of this qualification is to develop competent professionals capable of delivering specialised services in Chemical Pathology, addressing the current shortage of expertise in this critical field. The Diploma holder will be equipped to support academic and research activities and contribute meaningfully to the operations of a Chemical Pathology department under appropriate supervision.

Through the study of Chemical Pathology and practical applications, learners will acquire the following competencies

• Understanding of Biochemical Mechanisms and Interpretation of Laboratory Results
• Apply Diagnostic Equipment, Skills, and Laboratory Techniques Proficiency
• Quality Control and Assurance
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
• Research, Data collection, and Analysis
• Ethical and Professional Conduct
• Communication Skills, teamwork, and collaboration.
• Develop problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
• Effectively manage time, prioritise tasks, and work autonomously.
• Leverage relevant communication tools, technologies, and software applications.

The purpose, design Exit Level Outcomes (ELO's) of this qualification are constructively aligned. This qualification develops the following graduate attributes and ensures that the Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs) listed below are developed, assessed and achieved:

Upon completion of the qualification, a qualifying learner will be able to

• Engage in reflective practices and explore diverse strategies to enhance learning effectiveness.
• Actively participate as responsible citizens within local, national, and global communities.
• Exhibit cultural and aesthetic sensitivity across a range of social contexts.
• Contribute to the social and economic development of South African society.

Rationale

There is a severe shortage of Chemical Pathology specialists, particularly in public institutions. This threatens the continuity and quality of both academic training and clinical diagnostics. The sector faces additional pressure as many institutions cannot replace ageing professionals, highlighting an urgent need for sustainable capacity development. This qualification is a strategic response to that need, ensuring South Africa remains competitive in an era of increasing global scientific and healthcare demands.

This qualification was developed in consultation with key stakeholders, including the National Department of Health, the Eastern Cape Department of Health, Health Professions Council South Africa

This qualification is designed to prepare learners for advanced study in Chemical Pathology, with the broader aim of addressing the critical shortage of specialists in South Africa, particularly within the public healthcare sector. It seeks to cultivate research potential and academic interest, especially among candidates from historically disadvantaged backgrounds, and to lay a strong foundation for an academic pathway for progression to a master's qualification in Chemical Pathology.

The qualification expands the pool of qualified researchers in the field by equipping learners with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills. These individuals will possess the intellectual rigour, research capacity, and clinical insight needed to advance research in the discipline, support academic and clinical services, and alleviate the country's demand for a highly skilled health science workforce.

The influence of this qualification on society and the economy is demonstrated through the diverse range of job roles and career paths it can generate within both the private and public sectors. The availability of internationally recognised certification guarantees global acceptance and enhances the breadth of employment opportunities available to graduates.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution's RPL Policy is aligned with the national policies and criteria set by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and SAQA. The institution recognises that potential learners may have previous training or experience. RPL can be considered for access or advanced standing within this qualification in such situations.

RPL may therefore be used to ascertain competence for admission or access to this qualification and for module exemptions for advanced placement. Both admission status and module exemption may be granted through the RPL process.

Recognition of Prior Learning facilitates access to education, training, and career paths for those who may not have had the opportunities. Evidence of prior learning for admission status is assessed through formal RPL processes by approved institutional policy, which is aligned with national policies on the Recognition of Prior Learning. Learners submitting themselves for RPL will be thoroughly briefed before the assessment and must submit a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) in the prescribed format.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements align with the qualification's admission requirements as stipulated by the HEQSF, the Higher Education Act, and institutional admission policy.

Entry Requirements

• Bachelor of Medical Sciences, NQF Level 7.

Or

• Bachelor of Science (in Physiology or Biochemistry), NQF Level 7.

Or

• Bachelor of Biotechnology or Biomedical Sciences, NQF Level 7.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework, Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 120 Credits

• Research Methodology, Lab Management and Quality Control, 25 Credits
• Electrolytes, Acid-Base and Renal Pathology, 20 Credits.
• Nutrition, Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Pathology, 20 Credits.
• Diagnostic Molecular Biology and Neoplasia,15 Credits.
• Endocrinology and Central Nervous System Pathology, 25 Credits.
• Cardiovascular Pathology and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 15 Credits.

1. Upon successful completion of this qualification, the graduate will be able to

1. Integrate knowledge and critical understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts in Chemical Pathology, including the biochemical basis of health and disease.
2. Apply advanced knowledge of laboratory instrumentation, analytical methods, and quality assurance in the execution and evaluation of chemical pathology procedures.
3. Analyse and interpret biochemical test results in the context of disease pathophysiology, specifically emphasising conditions prevalent in rural and resource-limited settings.
4. Apply theoretical knowledge in practical and clinical laboratory contexts, demonstrating competence in handling samples, conducting relevant investigations, and adhering to laboratory best practices and safety standards.
5. Apply research methodologies and principles of research planning, including formulating a research question, designing a basic study, and interpreting scientific literature in the medical sciences.

Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Apply fundamental biochemical concepts and mechanisms accurately and contextualise them within the field of Chemical Pathology.
• Critically evaluate the relationships between biochemical markers and physiological or pathological processes.
• Apply key terminology, diagnostic categories, and disease mechanisms appropriately in case-based assessments and written work.
• Appraise technological advancements and their integration into diagnostic services in the field of Chemical Pathology.

Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Evaluate methods and results of Quality Control and Quality Assurance processes.
• Discuss the principles of commonly used laboratory instruments and analytical techniques.
• Perform laboratory procedures following standard operating procedures and quality assur-ance protocols.
• Evaluate laboratory results in terms of accuracy, reliability, and potential sources of error.
• Perform calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting processes for relevant equipment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Correlate laboratory test results with underlying disease processes.
• Propose differential diagnosis based on data interpretation and clinical context.
• Evaluate case studies and scenarios involving rural health challenges with appropriate bio-chemical reasoning.
• Discuss socioeconomic and epidemiological factors influencing disease presentation and test selection.

Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Competently handle, process, and store laboratory specimens following ethical and safety guidelines.
• Recommend relevant investigations to be conducted based on clinical need and scientific rationale.
• Evaluate laboratory documentation, reporting, and record-keeping against ethical, legal, and professional standards relevant to the discipline.
• Recommend solutions for real-world laboratory challenges using scientific knowledge and reflective practice.

Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Conduct a literature review in the Chemical Pathology field using current technologies.
• Critically evaluate scientific literature and defend relevant ideas for the advancement of Chemical Pathology science.
• Design a research proposal, including appropriate methodology, sampling, and data collection plans.
• Identify and apply research ethics and integrity principles to a research proposal.
• Conduct the research project and complete a mini dissertation.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment, both formative and summative, is structured to measure achievement of the exit level outcomes in an integrated way through a combination of formative and summative assessments. Assessments are designed to develop and test learners' ability to apply knowledge, analyse complex problems and demonstrate critical thinking. Each module will have a final mark resulting from continuous assessment of discussions, presentations, practical and written tests, and a final practical and written externalised exam.

Formative Assessment

Formative assessment: Continuous laboratory exposure with integrated assessment through clinically related work, clinical case discussion, departmental and interdepartmental meetings, seminars, topic review, and journal club. This contributes 60% of the final mark for each module.

Summative Assessment

Summative assessment: includes externalised written and practical exams at the end of each module. It contributes 40% of the final mark for each module.